Volunteering for a Clinical Trial

Taken from CenterWatch Pamphlet

About this Section

Over the past several years, a large and growing number of people want to learn more about clinical research and how to participate in a study. This section provides information about the clinical trials process and what it means for you to volunteer to participate in a clinical trial.

Should you join a trial?

As a volunteer in a clinical trial, you are participating in the development of medical therapies- therapies that may offer better treatments and even cures for life-threatening and chronic diseases.

People volunteer to participate in a clinical trial for a number of reasons. You may get involved in a trial because you simply want to help in the advancement of science, or you may be suffering from a disease for which a good treatment does not currently exist. You may join a clinical trial hoping to improve the medical care you receive. If you do not have health insurance, clinical trials are a way to receive study-related medical care.

Whatever reason, you may have questions about clinical trials and drug research. This section answers some of your questions. You should also ask your Physician and your research center's staff any questions before you volunteer. A list of common questions to ask is provided at www.centerwatch.com

It's important that you make an informed choice about volunteering for a clinical trial.